Home of the Chicago Tribune newspaper offices, this Gothic-Revival landmark features flying buttresses and gargoyles This is a result of New York architects John Mead Howells and Raymond M. Hood's design that was chosen as a winner out of 263 entries from twenty-three countries during an international architectural competition to immodestly "erect the most beautiful building in the world" in 1922.

The TREC trail system is a public trail designed to create recreational opportunities. The trails provide a great place for visitors to exercise, whether its walking, riding bikes, or roller blading. The mission is to develop a countrywide, multi-use trail system, educate the communities on the benefits of the trails, and promote an active lifestyle by providing recreational activities.

Museum-quality, historic Shaker reproduction furniture and accessories handcrafted by local artist. Showroom by appointment. Listed as one of the top 200 craftspeople in the United States by Early American Magazine.

Free Tours by Foot is pleased to present the only pay-what-you-like Chicago walking tours. These interesting and informative sightseeing tours will take you through many of the Windy City’s most famous neighborhoods. They’re one of the best things to do on your visit. They offer walking, food, architecture and bike tours. Come experience their Chicago walking tours.

A contemporary hand blown glass art studio. Original works of art created by Hiram Toraason. The studio provides a number of glass making opportunities, for the beginner to the advanced. Customize your experience! Formal classes to team building workshops are available. The gallery offers a variety glass from functional to the one of a kind creations. Ready to get hands-on with glass blowing yourself? Call for an appointment and let Torasson Glass help you create the perfect glass creation for you!

Enter through the back door under the L train tracks, give the password and experience Chicago during the Roaring '20s. Enjoy dinner and an interactive musical comedy revue with gangsters and flappers.

The Confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers at Cairo has seen its share of American history travel past its banks. Now visitors can stop at that famous intersection and take time to learn about that history in the new Toll House Transportation and Civil War Museum. It's at the southernmost point of Cairo at Fort Defiance Park, where US 51 and US 60 split across the Ohio and Mississippi rivers.

DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - Current movies at bargain prices in a beautifully restored French Renaissance 1920s movie theater. Over 1,000 seats with 4K Digital Projection and Sound with Digital 3-D, Wurlitzer pipe organ player Friday, Saturday nights and special events. Theatre is available for meetings with DVD, power point, wi-fi capabilities.

The Tinley Park Historical Society was established in 1974 to preserve the history of Tinley Park and the surrounding areas that have influenced its growth and development. Since 1976, the Society has been headquartered at the "Old Zion Landmark," 6727 174th Street where it maintains a museum of local history and a local research library. The Prairie Gothic style "Old Zion Landmark" church was built in 1884 for the local Zion Lutheran congregation. The Historical Society complex also includes a reproduction of the Village's second schoolhouse. The original one room schoolhouse had been built in 1880 very near to the current location to replace a smaller schoolhouse and from 1892 to 1954 the building served as the community's Village Hall. The "Landmark Chapel" and the "New Saenger Hall" meeting room are available for weddings and other meetings and special events.

Tinker Swiss Cottage is a historic house museum located in the heart of Rockford, Illinois. The museum complex contains the historic house museum, barn, and carriage house from the Tinker family. In addition, the property is the home of the founding site of Rockford and contains a Pre-Columbian Native American conical mound. Robert surrounded his Swiss Cottage with over 27 acres of trees, vines, winding pathways, flowerbeds, and gardens. A three-story Swiss inspired barn was added to the property which housed cows, chickens, and horses. On the side of the Cottage, Robert constructed a suspension bridge crossing the Kent Creek. At the end of Robert's suspension bridge, he planted elaborate gardens deemed the Railroad Gardens where passengers could stroll as they waited for the train.

Enjoy the inspiring surroundings of Jacksonville's sewing complex. A beautiful and bright 2500 sq ft showroom is packed with all types of sewing needs, including JANOME sewing machines to try before you buy! Wonderful cabinets fill the room to give you the feel of home! The store's friendly staff will make you feel welcome. The store offers in-house sewing machine repair for most makes and models and classes for all levels of sewers in all types of sewing interest. There are always changes going on at Times Square. After looking at all the variety of things in the showroom, check out the 1250sq ft classroom, where there are several quilts from previous classes on display.

Three sisters, Sadie, Lillian, and Goldie Cohen, expressed a wish that the 400-acres of farmland located adjacent to the city of Chillicothe, IL be dedicated as park land and a model farm for educational, recreational, and conservational purposes. While the Cohen sisters lived just off Moss Avenue in Peoria, they loved their family farm. Their vision was for the property to remain agriculturally related. The master plan envisions the creation of a living history farm, a central activity building, large festival areas, a welcome center, restaurant, agricultural equipment museum activity area, and outdoor natural amphitheater. The open fields and forested areas offer unique space for special events, concerts and festivals.

In this 1940s romantic comedy a middle-aged couple looks back on their college days and courtship. The movie was filmed at Knox College in Galesburg, the alma mater of writer George Fitch (a Saturday Evening Post staffer), whose novel inspired the film. The “Old Main” building at Knox College is the only remaining original site of the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas senatorial debates.

As a production company, Theater Wit’s is the premier smart art theater in Chicago, producing humorous, challenging, and intelligent plays that speak with a vibrant and contemporary theatrical voice. As an institution, Theater Wit seeks to be the hub of the Chicago neighborhood theater scene. In our three spaces, we bring together Chicago’s best storefront theater companies. Here you will find a smorgasbord of excellent productions, see the work of a parade of talented artists, and mingle with audiences from all over Chicago.

Theatre Historical Society of America features archives and gallery space showcasing the history of America's theatres in photos, blueprints and artifacts.Rotating exhibits highlight the history of different theatres.

Visit our shop in downtown Casey and your creative spirit will soar. The newly renovated space provides a relaxed atmosphere for browsing. Our supplies include items for knit, crochet, spinning, and weaving. Many items are sold exclusively through independent retailers. We strive to help the beginner as well as motivated advanced knitter. Home to the World's Largest Knitting Needles and Crochet Hook.

Created by the late Bob Moomaw. Bob worked as a railroad clerk and tax assessor, but did not like either job. As an eccentric, independent artist with strong beliefs, he was able to give voice to his feelings, passions, and opinions through his art and the writing on the sides of buildings. He created the 62-foot-long artwork starting in 1992 to say something about his life and the era during which he lived. A nearby marker gives an interpretation of his work.

Opened in 1909 as an opera house and a meeting hall for the Independent Order of Oddfellows, the Wildey has undergone many transformations through the years. The most recent one is a $2 million renovation inside and out.

The White Pelican Art Gallery sits on the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois river in Grafton IL. Featuring 18 area artists in a variety of mediums, some depicting local charms. Open Wednesday- Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Vault Arts Collective is a unique and eclectic collection of artists and artisans from all of central Illinois. Our 12,000 square foot former bank building is home to over forty artists that have come together to create and sell art with the common goal of sharing their talents with the world and, in turn, bring the world to Tuscola.

What started as a single-screen movie house in 1940 has become a power house for live music and community theater. This gorgeous theater is one of the greatest components to Carbondale's thriving art & culture scene, as it serves as home to the Jackson County Stage Company, which presents several plays during the year, and hosts the weekly Friday Night Film series. The Varsity serves as a venue for live entertainment during the Carbondale Rocks Revival, an annual city-wide music festival in addition to accommodating local and regional musicians during the year to bring the city exceptional entertainment.

The Museum has a collection of over 52,000 objects. It houses an art collection and a collection of prehistoric, historic, and scientific objects. One of the permanent and very popular exhibits is the "W.P.A. Pioneer Dioramas", which were created by local craftsmen employed at the Museum during the Works Progress Administration, 1938-1942. It has six galleries, an archive, Museum Gift Shop, and a 100-seat auditorium.

The one and only goat tower in the U.S. It is modeled after a tower that Dave and Marcia Johnson saw in a wine magazine from S. Africa. The original goat tower was in Portugal. The Johnston's tower is 31 foot tall and has 5,000 bricks with 276 spiral steps that encompass the tower.

Carson Pirie Scott & Company’s former flagship store, designed by Louis H. Sullivan (1856-1924) was also built in stages, beginning in 1899, 1903, augmented by an addition by D. H. Burnham & Co. in 1906, and ending with a 1961 addition by Holabird and Root. Although Carson’s wide windows and narrow piers are expressive of the internal steel frame, the building is more famous for its exquisite ornament by Sullivan. The embellished storefronts, newly restored decorative cornice, and ornate columns capitals on the interior all bear Sullivan’s personal style of ornament. It was both named a Chicago Landmark and listed in the National Register in 1970. It was named a National Historic Landmark in 1975.

Enjoy comedians, big bands, burlesque, drag shows, and more at the Speakeasy. This intimate club offers live performances throughout the year to fit a variety of tastes. The Speakeasy features a bar, simple menu, and performance seating at small and large tables. To see what's coming up next at the Speakeasy visit http://circa21.com/speakeasy.asp

Enjoy this intimate theatre featuring live music, comedy and more. Located right next door to the Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse, the Speakeasy is the newest edition to the Downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District. Open Thursday through Saturday, check the website for upcoming event schedule.

Enchanted dining experiences await guests at this contemporary American restaurant. Located atop the John Hancock Center, it offers the best view of the city of Chicago. Live jazz, elegant dark wood and marble tiled artdeco interior compliments the mood.

Named for the late improvising guru Martin de Maat, this 49-seat theater is dedicated to presenting productions that are rooted in the crafts of theatrical improvisation and sketch comedy as taught by The Second City Training Center.

The Second City opened its doors on a snowy Chicago night in December of 1959, and has since grown to become the world’s premier comedy club, theatre and school of improvisation. The Second City has launched the careers of John Belushi, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and many others. Dinner/show packages available. Call or log on for specific show information.

Donny’s Skybox Theatre and the de Maat Studio Theatre are dedicated to presenting productions that are rooted in the crafts of theatrical improvisation and sketch comedy as taught by The Second City Training Center. Alumni, faculty, students, and other members of the extended Second City family unite to develop new voices and points-of-view in a manner that honors the history of the work and seeks to propel it into the future. Donny’s Skybox is a studio environment where both emerging and established artists are encouraged to experiment, innovate, and grow.

The Second City opened its doors on a snowy Chicago night in December of 1959, and has since grown to become the world’s premier comedy club, theatre and school of improvisation. The Second City has launched the careers of John Belushi, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and many others.

This center was designed for children ages 3-13 and their families. The science museum features several interactive hands-on exhibits dealing with a variety of basic concepts of science, as well as special events and programs.

The Science Center of Southern Illinois is the perfect way for kids to explore the beauty of science in a fun atmosphere. This hands-on children's museum has over 50 exhibits and sees nearly 15,000 annual visitors. Adults are also welcome, as many of the activities can be enjoyed by all.

Contact Visit McHenry County for information on tours. A private estate located in Barrington Hills, featuring the world's finest collection of automatic music instruments, including the world's largest theater organ. Private group tours or 40 or more. Charity gala events & concerts. A summer concert series and a Christmas concert supporting the Sanfilippo Foundation open to the public with pre-purchased tickets. Concerts include time to explore the Sanfilippo Collection. See website for details and tickets.

John Wellborn Root designed the Rookery in 1885-9, which reflects the development of new structural systems for large urban buildings during that time. It holds one of the most spectacular interior spaces in the state, an elaborate main lobby and light court that were renovated by Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) in 1905. The Rookery was named a Chicago Landmark in 1972, listed to the National Register in 1970, and named a National Historic Landmark in 1975.

Located in Chicago’s historic Uptown theater district, at the intersection of Racine, Broadway and Lawrence the Riviera Theatre is a central part of the Chicago’s past and present. The Riviera has hosted many of the world’s greatest performers and entertainers throughout the years and is also available for private functions. Its grand design and beauty make it a perfect location for a variety of events.

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum immerses visitors in one of the grandest residential buildings of 19th-century Chicago, the Gilded Age home of banker Samuel Mayo Nickerson. Philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus founded the museum on April 1, 2003 with a vision to influence today’s built environment by preserving and promoting architecture and design of the past.

The Richard H. Driehaus Gallery of Stained Glass, located near the tip of Chicago’s Navy Pier, immerses visitors in darkened rooms bathed in the glow of 11 of Tiffany Studios’ stained glass windows, ranging from ecclesiastical to secular landscapes. Each displays the ways Tiffany Studios reinvented tradition, using embedded colors and new types of glass to create folds, ripples, and other textures that gave life to each scene.

Guided tours (by reservation only) of Ragdale, a nationally renowned artists' community built by noted architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, include a walk through the historic house and gardens as well as a studio visit with an artist-in-residence.

Art, architecture, and garden tours of Howard Van Doren Shaw's summer retreat. The house and gardens, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places among examples of the Arts and Crafts movement in the country. It house 12 artists at a time.

The Promontory is a stylish, two-story bar and restaurant that also houses live music throughout the week. Come for drinks and enjoy an extensive list of wine, cocktails and beer, or browse the menu for unique entrees, small plates, pastries, and more. The Chef de Cuisine and Sommelier team also hosts a tasting every Tuesday featuring a 5-course tasting menu complete with wine pairings.

This one hour musical play tells the story of life in the early 1840s, as immigrants came up the Mississippi River to Nauvoo on the Maid of Iowa, a beautiful little paddle-wheeler. You’ll laugh at the antics of young Eli, thrill at the dancing and music, and feel the depth of devotion of these early settlers in Nauvoo as they face the martyrdom of their leader, and the violent and dangerous exodus from their homes in the middle of winter. Tickets are free but required for admission.

A unique one of a kind shop in downtown Eldorado, the Porch Basket offers a large line of hand woven baskets, country decor items, and a large line of basket weaving supplies. Call about basket weaving lessons.

The Paderewski and Kosciuszko memorial rooms, folk art, photos and documents all tell the fascinating history of the Polish immigration to America and Chicago, where the largest Polish population outside of Warsaw resides.

When you think about Chicago you think Improv Comedy. And when Chicago improvisers think improv they think The Playground Theater. The Playground is the Chicago Improvisers improv theater. This performer run comedy club features the best in Chicago improv and sketch comedy. With shows 7 nights a week, The Playground is a perfect place to start your night with a friends and a laugh.

The Pavilion is centrally located near excellent area shopping, lodging and restaurant facilities. The 40,000 sq. ft. multipurpose facility features banquet and meeting rooms as well as an exposition hall, great for providing the perfect solution for meeting, gatherings, receptions, banquets, trade shows, conventions, etc. Free parking, Wi Fi, catering options and many other amenities make this the Premier Event Center in Southern Illinois.

The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms and Copperstone Inn are a unique venue for an unforgettable wedding ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner. An Orchard Ridge Farms/Copperstone Inn wedding offers the combination of rustic charm and sophisticated elegance that will create extraordinary memories that will last a lifetime. Our one hundred and thirty acres creates a majestic stage for your special event, a refreshing change from the average banquet facility.

Award-winning Executive Chef Baasim Zafar and team serve homemade scones, delectable pastries and tea sweets prepared in house daily, reflecting locally sourced ingredients to ensure an authentically memorable experience. From the original blend of “Palm Court” tea created specifically for The Drake Hotel to the china and sterling silver service with the enchanting ambiance of the live harpist in the background, afternoon tea is truly a memorable experience for all.

The 60-seat facility is complete with a restored 1928 Barton 12-rank theatre pipe organ. It was originally built to perform popular music and to accompany the silent movies of the 1920s. Group tours available.

Located in the heart of downtown Dixon, Illinois, The Next Picture Show is a non-profit fine arts center in the Rock River Valley. Our goal is to nurture, develop, educate, foster the arts, and galvanize artists and patrons within the community. The Next Picture Show is open from 8am to 4pm, Monday through Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Exhibitions and presentations of contemporary photography are supported by grants from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs/Gallery 37, the Illinois Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts. See these works at the museum located at Columbia College.

A Professional Actor Equity Association-affiliated theatre performing Broadway musicals and comedy. Produces five mainstage shows from mid-June to mid-August. Three theatres for young audiences, shows, in addition to a fall, Christmas, & spring show.

The Legacy Walk is a dynamic outdoor LGBT history exhibit in the "Lakeview" neighborhood of Chicago. Presently, along the half mile of the North Halsted Street Corridor, between Belmont Avenue and Grace Street, ten (10) pairs of 25'-tall decorative "Rainbow Pylons" define the nexus of Chicago's LGBT community. Affixed to the pylons are a series of bronze memorial plaques commemorating the life and work of notable lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender individuals whose achievements have helped shape the world

Located in the residence of local artist Frannie Thompson, this shop features all types of handmade creations. Her fine assortment of fused glass and beads, paintings, jewelry, sewing and purses awaits you.

The Joffrey is a world-class, Chicago-based ballet company that performs a unique repertoire encompassing masterpieces of the past and cutting-edge works. Director Gerald Arpino brings a uniquely American style of dance featuring ballets from the great choreographers of the 20th century. Many prolific choreographers have worked with the Joffrey including Paul Taylor, Twyla Tharp, George Balanchine, and founders Gerald Arpino and Robert Joffrey. Photo credit: Joffrey Ballet

The mission of J Draper Glass is to offer a complete understanding of hot glass as a studio movement in America by engaging the community through hands on opportunities, classes, tours, team building workshops and open houses to encourage an exploration of this medium. Through these efforts, JDraper Glass will cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art of hand blown glass.

The Stage Company was born in 1982 when a small but enthusiastic group met to explore the possibility of founding a community theater in Southern Illinois. This community theater produces four shows a year. In 2008, the company moved into the Varsity Center for the Arts, 418 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale. Call their box office at (618) 549-5466, M-F 5-7pm; S 12-4pm. For a current list of their plays, refer to their web site www.stagecompany.org

The Illinois State Museum Chicago Gallery exhibits and promotes the work of contemporary and historical Illinois artists. The changing exhibition schedule presents Illinois art to a statewide as well as a national and international audience. Our exhibition schedule ranges across mediums, including our outstanding quilt collection in the Decorative Arts area to electronic art, installations, and collaborative exhibitions with community organizations. Admission is free.

Home to the Kalo Foundation of Park Ridge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the rich artistic legacy of the city through education, advocacy, and preservation, as well as promoting the arts & crafts as an integral part of our modern lives. Based on the ideals of the American Arts and Crafts Movement, the Foundation will sponsor educational seminars, exhibits, tours, publications and special events to increase awareness and appreciation of the arts and crafts. Check the website for special events and hours.

Anchored by items gifted by Col. Edd & Violet Kueker, this collection represents the settlement of the West, numerous U.S. wars and early transportation. There is even a display of items from the Stone Age retrieved during a local archaeological dig. Changing displays and Special Exhibits from the Museum collection and "on loan" items provide awesome journeys through the pages of history.

Known for its wide selection of craft beer and hosting exceptional music, The Hangar 9 is arguably Carbondale's best venue for nightlife. Built to resemble an airplane hangar, the building is unmistakable. Located on The Strip in Downtown Carbondale, the bar brings everything from karaoke, open-mic, and trivia to recognizable national acts to the downtown.

One of the largest and most comprehensive programs of its kind in the country, the Gene Siskel Film Center presents premieres of new American and foreign films, revivals of classics, retrospectives, independent productions, and festivals of international scope. Open to the public seven days a week, $11 general admission, $8 groups, $7 for students. Visit our website at siskelfilmcenter.org for more information.

If you are looking for a unique shopping experience stop at The Framer's Gallery and see all the great one-of-kind gifts from over 20 local artists including jewelry, pottery, wood carving, photography and various mediums of art work. The gallery also offers experienced custom framing at competitive prices. This is always a fun place to be. Come and enjoy the day on Washington Square.

Discover Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found! At the Field Museum you can also get a bug's-eye view in the Underground Adventure, descend into an Egyptian tomb, be dazzled in the Hall of Gems, come nose to nose with the infamous man-eating lions of Tsavo, and walk among dinosaurs in Evolving Planet.

A delightful artist haven offering a mix of Victorian eggs, feathered masks and wreaths, floral arrangements and intimate miniature portrait silhouettes. Windy Corner Farms and The Feathered Nest gardens and studio are an experience soon to be a cherished memory.